The Ontario Government signalled its commitment to Benefits Transformation as a key government priority in the 2010, 2011 and 2012 Budgets. The vision for transforming benefits service delivery is to improve client service, produce better client outcomes, and ensure sustainable and cost-effective program delivery. Municipalities are key partners in the delivery of income-tested benefits programs to Ontarians.

Working with OMSSA, in February 2013 Ontario will be conducting a brief survey to collect information related to the technology environment for Ontario’s income-tested benefits programs delivered by municipalities, District Social Services Administration Boards (DSSABs) and Consolidated Municipal Service Managers (CMSMs). The purpose of this survey is to gain an understanding of the business processes, systems and business functions that are being used in municipalities to support delivery of these benefit programs.The survey – an electronic one delivered via survey monkey - will be circulated by OMSSA during the week of February 11thto the group of 47 Administrative Leads, with a request that it be directed to the I&IT function within each organization for a response. A three week turn around time will be requested for responses.

The information collected from the survey will be used to inform future planning regarding opportunities to support transformation of Ontario’s income-tested benefits programs.

Once the survey has been completed and analyzed, a workshop with municipalities will be planned to share and seek feedback on the results obtained.